What Is the 2017-S Lincoln Penny Worth Today?
The 2017-S Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $1 in proof condition to over $500 for high-grade specimens. While standard 2017 pennies found in pocket change are generally worth only their face value, the “S” mint mark signifies a special strike intended for collectors rather than circulation.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 (Deep Cameo) | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| PR 69 (Deep Cameo) | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| PR 70 (Perfect Grade) | $150.00 – $550.00 |
Understanding the Significance of the 2017-S Lincoln Penny
If you have stumbled upon a shiny 2017 penny with a small “S” under the date, you have found something unique. Most of the pennies we use daily were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) or Denver (marked with a ‘D’). However, San Francisco pennies are usually “Proof” coins. This means they were struck using specialized polished dies to create a mirror-like finish and sharp details.
For the everyday American, identifying these treasures is now easier than ever using a free coin identifier app. These digital tools allow you to scan your spare change and immediately see if you are holding a common cent or a collector’s item. The 2017-S was primarily sold as part of 2017 Proof Sets provided by the U.S. Mint, so finding one in a jar of loose change is rare but not impossible.
Because these coins were never intended to be spent at the grocery store, their condition is the most critical factor in their pricing. Collectors look for the “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) effect, where the frosted portrait of Abraham Lincoln stands out vividly against a dark, reflective background. If your coin looks like a mirror, it is likely a proof strike.
Detailed 2017-S Penny Price Guide and Market Trends
The market for modern Lincoln cents remains robust because millions of people enjoy the “Lincoln Shield” series that debuted in 2010. While the 2017-S isn’t a “key date” in terms of scarcity, the demand for perfect PR70 specimens keeps prices high. A PR70 grade indicates that the coin is flawless even under 5x magnification.
According to recent auction data, the 2017 penny value for high-grade specimens can vary significantly based on the third-party grader. Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) are the industry standards. A coin in a “slab” (protective plastic holder) with a high grade will always command a premium over “raw” or ungraded coins.
| Mint Mark | Mintage Type | Estimated Value (Top Grade) |
|---|---|---|
| 2017-P | Business Strike (Circulation) | $25.00+ (MS67) |
| 2017-D | Business Strike (Circulation) | $15.00+ (MS67) |
| 2017-S | Proof Strike (Collector) | $550.00+ (PR70) |
If you aren’t sure where your coin fits, using the CoinKnow app can help you compare your coin’s luster and strike quality against professional database photos. This step is vital before spending money on professional grading services.
The Rare “P” Mint Mark of 2017: A Special Year
Interestingly, the 2017-S isn’t the only “special” penny from that year. To celebrate the 225th anniversary of the United States Mint, the Philadelphia Mint placed a “P” mint mark on the Lincoln cent for the first and only time in history. Normally, Philadelphia pennies have no mark. This makes 2017 a unique year for collectors who want to complete a “full set” of mint marks (P, D, and S).
While 2017-P pennies were released into circulation, high-grade versions remain collectible. You can check the current market value for 2017 Lincoln cents to see how the “P” and “S” varieties compare. Generally, the 2017-S remains more valuable because of its limited mintage within proof sets, whereas billions of 2017-P coins were minted.
However, many collectors look for “Red” (RD) designations on these coins. Since pennies are made of copper-plated zinc, they oxidize over time. A coin that retains its original fiery orange-red color is significantly more valuable than one that has turned brown. CoinKnow allows users to filter by color designation to ensure they are looking at the right price points.
Errors and Varieties to Watch for in 2017 Lincoln Cents
While the 2017-S is usually high quality, the 2017-P and 2017-D circulation pennies are where “error hunters” find the real money. Errors occur during the minting process and can turn a one-cent coin into a thousand-dollar prize. For the 2017 series, collectors often search for Doubled Dies, though no major “Holy Grail” doubled die has been confirmed for the 2017-S proof specifically.
Common errors to look for in 2017 pennies include:
1. Doubled Die Obverse: Look for blurring or “shadowing” on the date or the word “LIBERTY.”
2. Die Chips: Small blobs of extra metal, often seen on the “P” mint mark or Lincoln’s head.
3. Off-Center Strikes: If the image isn’t centered on the coin, it can be worth $10 to $50 depending on the percentage of the offset.
| Error Type | Rarity | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Die Chip | Common | $2 – $5 |
| 10% Off-Center Strike | Scarce | $15 – $30 |
| Struck on Wrong Planchet | Very Rare | $200+ |
Detecting these microscopic details is much easier when you use an app like CoinKnow, which features high-resolution zoom capabilities.
How to Store and Protect Your 2017-S Penny
If you find a 2017-S Proof Penny, handling it with your bare hands is the quickest way to lower its value. The oils from your skin can cause permanent fingerprints and “milky spots” on the delicate mirror finish of a proof coin. To preserve its value, you should only handle the coin by its edges or while wearing lint-free cotton gloves.
Storing your coin in a PVC-free plastic flip or a specialized coin capsule is the best way to prevent oxidation. Since the 2017-S value is largely tied to its “Deep Cameo” finish, any scratch—even a tiny one—will drop the grade from a PR70 down to a PR68 or lower, potentially losing hundreds of dollars in market value.
Many collectors keep their 2017-S pennies inside the original US Mint lens (the plastic case the proof set comes in). If you found your coin “in the wild,” it’s already likely been “impaired,” meaning it has some light scratches from rubbing against other coins. An impaired proof won’t bring top dollar, but it is still a fascinating piece of numismatic history.
Final Thoughts: Is Your 2017 Penny a Keeper?
In summary, the 2017-S Lincoln Penny is a beautiful example of modern US coinage. While most 2017 cents are worth exactly one cent, the San Francisco proof is a collector’s item with a price tag that can reach the hundreds for perfect specimens. Whether you are a hardcore collector or just someone who looked at their change today, it’s always worth taking a second look.
Remember to look for the “S” or the “P” mint marks, check for errors, and use modern tools to verify what you have. The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and the 2017-S is a perfect entry point for those looking to start a collection that could potentially grow in value over the decades.
FAQ
Q: Why is there an “S” on my 2017 penny?
A: The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint. This mint typically produces “Proof” coins specifically for collectors, rather than the coins we use for everyday shopping.
Q: How many 2017-S pennies were made?
A: The US Mint produced approximately 2,110,210 of the 2017-S Proof Lincoln Pennies. While this sounds like a lot, it is a tiny fraction of the billions produced in Philadelphia and Denver that same year.
Q: Is my 2017-P penny rare?
A: The 2017-P is significant because it is the only Lincoln cent ever to feature the “P” mint mark. While over 4 billion were made, they are highly sought after by collectors as a “one-year-only” type coin.
Q: Should I get my 2017-S penny graded?
A: Only if it appears to be in perfect condition. Since the cost of grading is roughly $20-$40, the coin needs to be a PR69 or PR70 to make the investment worthwhile. Use a coin app first to estimate the potential grade.
